The NSW Liberals and Nationals have pledged to reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card if they win government at the 2027 state election, reviving a program that became a key source of transport assistance for many older residents in regional communities.
The commitment would see eligible seniors in regional New South Wales receive a $250 prepaid card that can be used for fuel, taxis and pre-booked train or coach travel.
The announcement places cost-of-living pressures and regional transport access back at the centre of political debate, with the Opposition arguing that the program provided practical support for seniors who often face longer travel distances and fewer public transport options than their metropolitan counterparts.
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said the card was removed despite strong community support, pointing to a petition that attracted more than 22,000 signatures.
“One of Labor’s first actions when coming to government was to cut cost-of-living support relied upon by thousands of people across NSW,” Ms Sloane said.
“We know that with the increasing cost of fuel people are increasingly looking at ways to save, and we know that the Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide hip pocket relief.”
NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said transport costs and distance remained ongoing challenges for many older residents living outside major cities.
“An elected Liberals and Nationals Government will reinstate the card and ensure the most vulnerable members of our communities are not left without the support they deserve again,” Mr Singh said.
The Regional Seniors Travel Card was introduced in 2020 by the former Coalition government. According to the Opposition, more than 1.3 million cards were issued before the program was discontinued under the Labor government.
Shadow Minister for Seniors Kevin Anderson said regional seniors often rely on private transport to attend medical appointments, purchase groceries and maintain social connections.
“People living in regional areas have fewer transport options than those in the city and deserve support to get to medical appointments, groceries, or connect with friends and family,” Mr Anderson said.
Shadow Regional Transport and Roads Minister Paul Toole rejected criticism of the proposal and argued the card offered straightforward financial assistance.
“This card is all about making daily life easier by helping ease the cost of living for regional seniors,” Mr Toole said.
Support for the proposal has also come from some community representatives. Brian Hall, President of the Grafton Senior Citizens group, said many older residents continue to feel the effects of rising living costs.
“For many seniors in regional communities, particularly pensioners, the rising cost of living is placing pressure on household budgets. The $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card helped ease that burden by assisting with essential travel costs,” Mr Hall said.
He said regional residents often travel considerable distances to access healthcare, specialist services and shopping facilities, making transport assistance particularly valuable.
The proposal is likely to become part of a broader debate over regional services and cost-of-living support ahead of the next state election. While the Coalition argues the card provided targeted assistance to older residents, Labor has previously defended spending decisions made after taking office, citing broader budget priorities.
With the election still some distance away, the future of the Regional Seniors Travel Card will ultimately depend on the outcome of the 2027 poll. For many regional seniors, however, the announcement has reopened a conversation about how governments can help manage the extra costs that often come with living outside major urban centres.
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